Latest news with #BritishSchoolOverseas
Saudi Gazette
04-05-2025
- General
- Saudi Gazette
British International School Al Khobar achieves historic milestone
The British International School Al Khobar (BISAK), founded in 1977, has made history by becoming the first Braitish school in Saudi Arabia to receive an 'Outstanding' rating in all areas of inspection by the UK Department for Education's British School Overseas (BSO) program. The inspection took place in February 2025, and the report has now been officially published. This prestigious recognition highlights BISAK's unwavering commitment to delivering exceptional education while fostering a nurturing and inclusive environment. The BSO inspection evaluated the school across several key criteria, including the quality of education, pupils' spiritual, moral, social, and cultural development, as well as welfare, health and safety, and the quality of leadership and management. According to the BSO report, 'BISAK provides an environment where pupils thrive, due to the positive commitment of staff to develop them as confident, compassionate learners.' Stephen Viner, Principal and CEO of BISAK, said the achievement reflected the entire school community's dedication and effort.'This achievement is a testament to the dedication and hard work of our entire school community,' Viner said. 'We are thrilled to be recognised for our excellence and will continue to strive for the highest standards of education and care throughout our school. I would also like to express my sincere appreciation to the General Administration of Education in the Eastern Province for their ongoing support and guidance. Their collaboration has been vital in helping us achieve this historic milestone.'T. Naidoo, Head of Prep, commended the commitment of both pupils and staff, noting the emphasis placed on holistic development.'I am very proud of the effort of all our pupils and staff during the inspection period and throughout the year,' said Naidoo. 'Our dedicated prep staff have worked extremely hard to enhance pupil learning. Our focus on pastoral care and enrichment of the curriculum have also been highlighted as strengths. Overall, this inspection report reflects the high-quality provision in the Prep School.'L. Marsh, Head of Senior, emphasized the consistent quality of teaching and student conduct witnessed by inspectors.'Our pupils and staff could not have done more to showcase how special our school is,' Marsh said. 'The inspection team saw what we do every day, which is hard work, excellent manners, and great teaching and learning. A massive thank you to everyone involved in Senior School and Sixth Form. We will continue to strive for further improvement.'S. Barton, Bursar, expressed pride in the school's broader development strategy and the recognition it has now received.'I am overjoyed to be part of this excellent team effort in getting BISAK to where it is today,' said Barton. 'Gaining external recognition for the hard work and improvements made in school is a fine testament to the staff and the extended team that work with us as part of our improvement strategy. The hard work starts now in preparing for the next inspection.'The inspection outcome has been met with widespread praise from both parents and pupils. One parent shared their thoughts on the school's impact: 'BISAK has always been a place where my children have been encouraged to reach their full potential. This recognition is well-deserved.'Building on this milestone, BISAK remains dedicated to its guiding vision: 'Empower our pupils to become confident, compassionate learners and proactive global citizens prepared to thrive in an ever-changing world.' The school's long-standing motto, 'Let there be peace on earth,' continues to serve as a source of inspiration for the entire community in its pursuit of academic excellence, character development, and global access to the full BSO inspection report, visit:
Gulf Weekly
18-04-2025
- Entertainment
- Gulf Weekly
Masterpieces in motion at MNS
It was art, elegance and entrepreneurial flair on full display at the Multinational School Bahrain (MNS), as the campus in Adliya's bustling Block 338 was recently transformed into a vibrant open-air gallery for the school's much-anticipated 2025 Annual Art Exhibition. This year, MNS didn't just paint outside the lines, they completely redrew the canvas! Established in 2013, MNS is a fully accredited British School Overseas (BSO), delivering a rigorous British curriculum with an emphasis on creativity, critical thinking, and character. With a diverse student body representing more than 50 nationalities, the school has built a stellar reputation for nurturing well-rounded individuals. The headline act? A boundary-pushing 'Makeover Challenge' that paired students and teachers into artist-canvas duos, inviting them to explore one of three elemental themes: wood, crystal, or metal. The result was a stunning fusion of visual and performance art, where painted faces and sculptural costumes became storytelling tools as participants presented their visions on stage to an enthralled audience. All winners this year came from MNS' upper secondary section, aged 15 to 18, showcasing the incredible depth of talent among the school's senior students. Taking first place were sisters Mira and Maya Attari, whose concept left judges stunned with its elegant execution and thematic brilliance. Second place went to Sai Locharam and Yunish Kafle, whose performance art element earned praise for its emotion and inventiveness. Third place was awarded to Aengela Sibi and Hannah Bryant, whose creative use of materials wowed attendees. The 'Makeover Challenge' also celebrated the educators who brought the themes to life alongside their students, with Sabitha Mathew and Niya Andrews earning top honours among the teachers participating. The judging panel featured a trio of creatives who brought depth and diversity to the proceedings. Bahraini visual artist Waheeda Malullah, widely known for her work in photography, video, installation and painting, brought her critical lens to the event. Her art often explores cultural and religious norms and the role of women in Muslim society. She was joined by Jasim Redha, one of Bahrain's leading abstract artists, whose layered compositions and artistic insight added weight to the panel. Rounding out the trio was fashion designer Morissette Magalona, who merges his background in architecture with a deep appreciation for traditional Filipino style; his structural, heritage-inspired designs echo the concepts explored by the students. But the exhibition wasn't just an art show. Business and commerce students took centre stage in their own right, offering complimentary refreshments as part of their ongoing business projects. Guests were treated to rich, velvety tiramisu, tropical mango desserts and trays of beautifully presented homemade cookies - all proudly developed, marketed, and served by the students themselves. Who says iGCSE Business can't be delicious? The event also played host to an impressive list of dignitaries. Among those in attendance were Philippines ambassador Anne Louis and her husband Gerard Louis, Ethiopian ambassador Shiferaw Jena, Nepalese ambassador Tiryha Wagle and Shura Council member and cultural advocate Nancy Khedouri. The Education Ministry was represented by director of private education Lulwa Almuhanna, while community figure Ahlam Eid was also in attendance. From Year 1 through to Year 13, every corner of the school buzzed with pride and purpose as students showcased months of effort and originality. Abstract sculptures stood side by side with vivid portraits, while others turned to digital media or performance to bring their ideas to life. Themes of nature, resilience, identity, and sustainability were boldly explored. As the sun set over the transformed campus, and guests lingered over one last cookie or compliment to the young artists, it was clear that MNS has an incredible community and platform for their future. Admissions are now open for Nursery to Year 13 with a 20 per cent discount for nursery and reception class tuition fees. Year 1 students will receive a 25pc discount on Term 1 tuition fees.
Filipino Times
13-03-2025
- General
- Filipino Times
The Bloomington Academy celebrates 10 years of educational excellence with British Ambassador's visit
The Bloomington Academy, Ajman, marked its 10th anniversary with a grand celebration on March 5, 2025, graced by the presence of His Excellency Mr. Edward Hobart, British Ambassador to the UAE. The event, a testament to the school's commitment to British education, brought together founding families, North Point Education (NPE) leadership, students, parents, and teachers. His Excellency Mr. Edward Hobart and Mr. Lanson Lazar, Chairman of NPE, commenced the celebration by planting a sapling and unveiling the plaque, followed by a school tour featuring the Science innovative projects, a Jane Austen skit, a musical performance, demonstrations of Model United Nations and TEDx. With the spirit of social responsibility, The Bloomington Academy presented charitable donations to the Red Crescent. The evening concluded with an Iftar gathering, where Hobart met the founding parents, sharing in the school's growth and success. His Excellency Mr. Edward Hobart expressed his admiration for The Bloomington Academy's remarkable journey and achievements, including the ESAFE Award, Cambridge Outstanding Learner Awards, the Madam Sosamma Lazar 100% Scholarship Award and British School Overseas accreditation. He also recognized the school's dedication to community service. Addressing the audience, His Excellency Mr. Edward Hobart stated, 'In 2014, when the initial study was founded and set up for this building, it's unbelievable it came up in six months. And I'm so happy, seeing the individuals learning within this environment, now, that I've come back ten and a bit years later, 11 years now. It's a pleasure to see the school grown, a school community grown, all the achievements, and the pride that you've got in those many awards you've received. It shows just how much work it has taken to grow this, and how much reward we all get as adults to see the children here as they grow. Great! Congratulations and good luck.' Chairman Mr. Lanson Lazar reflected, 'A decade of excellence is not just a milestone, it is a celebration of the collective spirit, creativity, and perseverance that has fuelled our community's pursuit of educational excellence over the past decade. As we celebrate this milestone, we honour the past, cherish the present, and shape the future.' Offering EYFS to A Levels and BTEC, The Bloomington Academy, Ajman's pioneering British School Overseas accredited school, with 64 nationalities, is poised for further growth.
Gulf Today
10-03-2025
- General
- Gulf Today
Bloomington Academy commemorates 10 years with British Ambassador's visit
The Bloomington Academy, Ajman, marked its 10th anniversary with a grand celebration on March 5, 2025, graced by the presence of His Excellency Mr. Edward Hobart, British Ambassador to the UAE. The event, a testament to the school's commitment to British education, brought together founding families, North Point Education (NPE) leadership, students, parents, and teachers. His Excellency Mr. Edward Hobart and Mr. Lanson Lazar, Chairman of NPE, commenced the celebration by planting a sapling and unveiling the plaque, followed by a school tour featuring the Science innovative projects, a Jane Austen skit, a musical performance, demonstrations of Model United Nations and TEDx. With the spirit of social responsibility, The Bloomington Academy presented charitable donations to the Red Crescent. The evening concluded with an Iftar gathering, where Hobart met the founding parents, sharing in the school's growth and success. His Excellency Mr. Edward Hobart expressed his admiration for The Bloomington Academy's remarkable journey and achievements, including the ESAFE Award, Cambridge Outstanding Learner Awards, the Madam Sosamma Lazar 100% Scholarship Award and British School Overseas accreditation. He also recognized the school's dedication to community service. Addressing the audience, His Excellency Mr. Edward Hobart stated, ' In 2014, when the initial study was founded and set up for this building, it's unbelievable it came up in six months. And I'm so happy, seeing the individuals learning within this environment, now, that I've come back ten and a bit years later, 11 years now. It's a pleasure to see the school grown, a school community grown, all the achievements, and the pride that you've got in those many awards you've received. It shows just how much work it has taken to grow this, and how much reward we all get as adults to see the children here as they grow. Great! Congratulations and good luck.' Chairman Mr. Lanson Lazar reflected, 'A decade of excellence is not just a milestone, it is a celebration of the collective spirit, creativity, and perseverance that has fueled our community's pursuit of educational excellence over the past decade. As we celebrate this milestone, we honour the past, cherish the present, and shape the future.' Offering EYFS to A Levels and BTEC, The Bloomington Academy, Ajman's pioneering British School Overseas accredited school, with 64 nationalities, is poised for further growth.
Khaleej Times
18-02-2025
- Business
- Khaleej Times
Acadia British School securing outstanding education judgement
Arcadia British School (ABS) was delighted to have been awarded an outstanding judgement in all eight areas of the British School Overseas (BSO) Inspection in October 2024. The visiting team was keen to point out the exceptional relationships that students had between each other and their teachers and emphasised that the curriculum design of the school programme was remarkable, robust and rich. This unique curriculum has been meticulously crafted over the last five years, taking into consideration both student and parent feedback, developments in educational pedagogy and the need to reflect on changes to the world of work, changes in behaviour and the needs of both universities and employers. ABS was one of the first schools in the region to create a Junior MBA programme for primary students, which now links to the Centre for Entrepreneurial Learning (CEL) for secondary-age students (11-16) a co-constructed curriculum with Springside Chestnut Hill Academy in Philadelphia, where students collaborate in teams to work on project-based entrepreneurial learning, such as building digital presentations, app building and coding whilst preparing them for future-focussed work. The curriculum support doesn't stop with entrepreneurship. The ABS games and pull-out programme allows elite athletes from the age of 10 to experience individual coaching and training relevant to their focus sports and this is supported by curriculum enhancements with the introduction of BTEC (Business and Technology Education Council) Sports Studies post-16, which runs alongside the A Level option. The Performing Arts Academy also supports the curriculum with LAMDA (London Academy of Music and Dramatic Arts) tuition and exams, focussed drama sessions for talented performers and a range of artistic endeavours, including, junior and senior choir, concert band and a dance academy. The Duke of Edinburgh's Bronze and Silver programmes are also woven into the tapestry of learning by giving students the chance to grow a portfolio of skills relevant to the outside world whilst planning and executing overnight expeditions as part of a team. Such programmes grow resilience, grit and determination, one of the school's core values. We are also delighted to introduce two new members of the ABS Leadership Team for 2024-25 and beyond. Lisa Davage is an experienced Early-years leader and proponent of the Froebellian approach to learning. Lisa has joined our team as Assistant Head for the EYFS and KS1 division of the school. Lisa has been joined by Sarah Gray, as Head of the Primary School. Sarah was previously AHT at Deira International School, Dubai, and prior to this, a cluster Deputy Head lead for an academy group in the UK. Both leaders have already made a significant impact on the primary community and continue to take the school from strength to strength.
